One South: Portrait of a Psych Unit

I am a 23 year old who just graduated from college and had two stints in the psych ward this past year. Seeing this was really important for me as a reminder to stay out of that place and the skills I learned while there. It also helped me understand the perspective of the staff a bit more. However, the quality of a psych ward like this is VERY rare. This is much more rosy than 99% of units out there. I was with all ages and all conditions for weeks. When I went in the spring, there were many older men with psychosis and that was very scary as a young woman at times. My roommate was a woman in her late 30s who at one point told me she wanted to murder her daughter and she was an on record pedophile. And the therapy was not as focused and careful as presented in this documentary, although i did DBT as well like the patients in the documentary and it was incredibly helpful. However, I appreciate the portrayal of the patients and their stories the most, knowing that these individuals are the same age as me and going through similar pains. It in a way is hard to think about this documentary as mostly about the staff from my perspective. I think about the patients like me.

One South: Portrait of a Psych Unit is all of the things listed in my review subject. It's an exceptionally insightful look into the world, into a world of condition and care that too many people don't know, or understand that exists. It's warming to see the level of empathy the doctors approach their patients with, and the patience and kindness. We are also given insight into the day to day stresses and frustrations of doctors and patients. It's also a little terrifying to watch, and understand that this could be anyone, going through what these people are going through, or maybe a few steps from it, and it could just be that one thing that happens that brings us all there. I'm thankful that there are people that are out there doing the good work to help others. I'm thankful for a show like this that is bringing attention where it is needed. Too many people are ignorant that things can go this way, be this bad, and something like this is enlightening, and re-enforcing of an important point, to always be kind, always be compassionate. You have no idea what people are dealing with or going through. Artistically speaking, the show is very well shot, it tells a spectacular story, and it paints a vivid picture of all of the above. Also, it's a documentary at it's core, and it achieves it's purpose solidly.

"One South" offers a poignant and enlightening look into the lives of adolescent patients and the dedicated staff within a mental health unit.

The staff's dedication is palpable, and their interactions with the adolescents are a testament to their mission to create a safe and nurturing environment. Most memorable for me was a conversation between two clinical psychologists discussing their approaches about their choices and whether different therapeutic routes might have been better for a certain patient, etc. While we all question our decisions in daily and professional life, for these clinicians, the stakes seem much higher, and I imagine the weight of that is immense.

"One South" also gives a voice to the patients themselves, allowing viewers to gain a deeper understanding of their struggles. The documentary's empathetic portrayal fosters a sense of connection that sheds light on the daily battles faced by these young individuals, and so many others. It's a powerful reminder that mental health challenges are real and impactful.

The documentary does more than just highlight the work of the unit; it opens up meaningful conversations about mental health. By bringing these issues to the forefront, "One South" encourages viewers to discuss and destigmatize mental health conditions. It's a crucial step towards fostering a more supportive and informed community.

For local families, this documentary offers invaluable insights into how an adolescent mental health unit operates. It demystifies the processes and shows the humanity and care behind the clinical facade. This transparency can be reassuring for families who may be navigating similar challenges, providing them with a sense of hope and understanding.

The documentary does an exceptional job of portraying the complexities and daily realities for both the staff and patients.

I just watched episode 1 of the 2 part series called One South. I'm a retired NYPD police officer. I've visited plenty of psych wards. I have to say that one south is nothing close to where I've been. The care, professionalism, and staff are in another league. The facility is not crowded and very clean. Even though it was shot during Covid, it didn't seem to affect the staff. There was a feeling of calm throughout the episode. During one stressful event, the staff was always looking out for each other, as well as what's best for the patient. If anything this show is a wonderful infomercial for this facility and its exceptional staff. Can't wait to see episode 2.

This docu series gives an intimate look at what psychiatric Doctors and patients go through on a daily basis. A necessary rare glimpse of the inside. Hopefully it'll open eyes and start conversations about the state of mental health of these at risk youth that desperately need help and otherwise have nobody to care for them. The Doctors and Social workers here go above and beyond and you can tell they genuinely care about getting these patients the help that they need. 2 parts was a tease. We need 2 seasons. At least. Dr. Jason Stasi was one of the staff there that convinced me that there is hope and you can tell he's got a passion for his profession. The major difference between this program and other psychiatric docs, this staff is hip and relatable. Not the stuffy old shrink cliche of documentaries in the past. No spoilers but I finished watching and felt hopeful for the mental well being of those in need.